Thousands Protest Even As Tv Chief Resigns

January 12, 2001

PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC — Jiri Hodac, whose appointment as director of Czech Television last month sparked a widely supported newscasters' strike, resigned Thursday. But tens of thousands of demonstrators still gathered in Prague, urging Hodac's allies to quit as well and cleanse the network of what they call political appointees.

More than 50,000 people flooded Wenceslas Square, many waving banners reading, "We want an independent television." Smaller rallies were also held in Brno in the nation's southeast and in Ostrava, 225 miles east of Prague.

Journalists and newscasters at the network announced they would continue their strike until Hodac's supporters are dismissed and other demands are met.